Start a business

Funding

Workforce Solutions

Networking/Connections

Increase Sales

Relocate to Maine

Small Business Development Center (SBDC)

Free, confidential, small business advising for Maine entrepreneurs on a wide range of topics including business planning, credit and financing, financial analysis, marketing and sales, and operations and management.

SCORE

Provides free business mentoring for small businesses, including help with business planning, early-stage financing, and critical operational support. SCORE has chapters around the state which offer access to volunteer mentors and business education workshops. Mentors bring a wealth of experience from a variety of business backgrounds.

Maine Technology Institute (MTI)

Supports new technology related products and services that will create high-quality jobs for Maine people. It’s possible that MTI can be helpful in supporting new investments in equipment, engineering, or tooling necessary to pursue a new and innovative product or market.

Maine Funding Network

Match with funding sources from throughout the state of Maine with one form.

Startup Maine

A resource hub within the entrepreneurial ecosystem. It serves as a convener for founders, tech workers, entrepreneurial support organizations, funders, and those who are startup curious.

Pitch Comp

With targets ranging from business plan to growth stage companies these events give entrepreneurs opportunities to share their ideas with the business ecosystem.

College/Universities

Maine is host to a number of Colleges and Universities that all offer various assistance to businesses through career centers, research and development, and consulting opportunities.

Economic Development Districts

EDDs (i.e. Planning Commissions, Councils of Governments) offer business resources to include revolving loan programs, microenterprise grants, and Community Development Block Grants. Business resources vary depending on organization but consider reaching out to talk directly to learn what your EDD can do.

Chambers

Often known for networking, Chambers hold a wealth of knowledge about starting and running a business. Many chambers offer programing regarding business topics and current trends.

Coworking

Coworking spaces build community and connection for early-stage entrepreneurs, free-lancers, and remote workers. These spaces foster dreaming, sharing, iteration, and risk-taking through their energy, density of people, and community-building activities.